Negativity can be like the low hanging fruit. It’s readily accessible and easy to grab, and so many of us reach for it without hesitation.
And if immediate gratification is what we’re looking for, negativity delivers. Often, the thought of sitting with our vulnerabilities or fears is so uncomfortable that we’re quick to seek another story or belief to cling to and live by instead of having to just be with our soft emotional places.
Some examples of how we use negativity in unhealthy ways:
- Using it to blame what we don’t like on someone or something else (It’s so and so’s fault my life/this situation sucks.”)
- Using it to justify playing small or not own our vulnerability (I always get hurt in relationships. It’s just not worth it. The divorce rate is over 50%. Why bother even trying?)
- Using it to play safe and not take responsibility for our own process (I just shouldn’t try launching that new business. It’s too risky, and the economy is so bad. It’d be really irresponsible for me to follow through in this market, even if it is my dream.)
You get the idea. And, if you’re like me, you have these kinds of thoughts from time to time, or maybe even more than you’d like to admit. And well, I don’t know about you, but I’m kind of sick of them. Like totally over it.
I am ready for a major upgrade of authentic positivity and a kind of consciousness that reflects what I really know to be true at the core of my being: that life is beautiful, meaningful, and well worth living, even in today’s messy world.
Since inspiration can often feel like its in short supply when your inner “negative nancy” comes knockin at your door, I’ve put together a little video for all of us to view to give you a boost when you need it most.
It’s a compilation of some of my favorite quotes from some of my sheroes. And I’ve hand selected, one by one, a plethora of inspirational images in hopes of making this a contemplative meditation for you while you watch it.
DISCLAIMER: A large majority of us will make up excuses (like “I don’t have time to watch this”) when considering sitting down to follow through on this meditation.
I challenge you. Make time.
Take 8 minutes out of your day to reconnect to the promise of something more important in you than a daily to-do list. Perhaps an image or quote in this montage may be just the medicine you need today. But you still have got to show up to receive it.
So, without further ado, press play and drop in for an 8 minute offering. May it bring you peace, inspiration, and love. Enjoy.
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Thanks for watching! I hope you enjoyed it.
In closing, I just want to say that yes, it may take more effort sometimes to say “no” to the negativity out there, and yes, there’s no guarantees all will work out as you planned even if you’re as positive as can be.
But I’m still a believer in pro-actively making space for inspiration in my life. The grass is greener where we water it.
So, if you’d like to spread a little inspiration, why not share this video with a friend?
Big love as always sisters,
Amy
6 responses to “Staying Inspired When Negativity Abounds”
I love the soundtracks of the music you chose and the serene nature landscapes scenes you feature…are the reason I paint.
Maybe we aren’t drawn to negativity as much as pulled in by all the unrest and terror in the world, and even the scorching temperatures. Your wise words and uplifting video soothes my spirits….xoxojoan
Joan:
Thanks so much for watching and sharing your comments. I agree. The world does have a lot in it nowadays that can feel scarily negative and out of our control. How we choose to interface with this information is up to us and the only real thing we have control over, our perception. It’s so important we stay educated about what’s happening in the world, but not overwhelm ourselves with taking in negative media coverage just out of habit. We need to be conscious of our media consumption and choose what energy we wish to add to the mix with our thoughts and our words. Your paintings are a great example of how you contribute your beautiful energy to the mix, inviting more inspiration and positivity into our lives. I for one, am so grateful I’ve been able to enjoy some of those very paintings myself! Artists play a critical role in keeping us inspired, and I’m so honored I’ve been able to witness and experience your contributions to the art world. Such a gift! Big love and gratitude! xoxo, Amy
Thanks Amy!! Rob and I just watched this – beautiful pictures, quotes and music and very inspiring. You know I love quotes from so long ago….I think that was my first spiritual practice – collecting quotes that I aligned with. And it was you that gave me my first quote book! Love you lots, Elizabeth
Wow! I forgot I gave you your first quote book! I guess old habits are hard to break! So glad you enjoyed the video. Indeed, quote collecting, or even listening to good music, or viewing pleasant pictures can all be a spiritual practice. We may often overlook these ideas because they seem so simple. But one must not mistake simplicity for weakness. These can be very powerful practices indeed. Thanks, as always, for your contributions. Sending much love, Amy xo
Hi Amy,
I finally took some time to watch the video….and as always it was perfect timing! What a beautiful and powerful video. Just what I needed at the moment! I am going to share this right away! xo
That’s awesome Jane! So glad you enjoyed it and thank you for passing it on! A little inspiration can go a long way! xoxox